Watkins will play for the state title

TROY--The Watkins Glen girls varsity basketball team beat Mekeel Christian Academy 60-49 in the state semifinal Class C bracket Saturday, March 18 at Hudson Valley Community College.The Senecas took an early lead and finished on top, 18-12, at the end of the first quarter.At halftime, the Watkins lead had narrowed to five points, 29-24.The Senecas' defense kept Mekeel's top shooters under their average point totals in the first half. Watkins Glen continued their lead throughout the third quarter and had a 43-39 advantage to start the final eight minutes of the game.The Senecas started the fourth quarter strong and pushed their lead to 13 points with only 3:49 left in the game. Mekeel tried to employ their best defensive press in the final minutes of the game but the Watkins lead was too much to overcome. WG took the victory 60-49. Emmie Bond led with 14 points in the game for Watkins.Watkins Glen will now play for their first girls basketball state title Sunday, March 19 at Hudson Valley Community College. The game is scheduled to begin at 11:45 a.m. Watkins will face Port Jefferson in the finale. PJ defeated defending state champion South Seneca 71-53, Saturday afternoon.